Health: Plantar Fasciitis – Podiatrist Calvin Sinnett and Sean Pincus

In this episode of Lunch with Pippa Hudson, podiatrists Calvin Sinnett and Sean Pincus from Cape Podiatry dive deep into plantar fasciitis, a common and often misunderstood foot condition causing sharp heel pain, especially in the morning. They clarify that plantar fasciitis is not an inflammatory condition (hence the preferred term 'fasciopathy') but rather a degenerative issue from micro-tears in the plantar fascia ligament due to overuse, poor footwear, or sudden changes in activity. The hosts emphasize that walking it off won’t resolve the issue and that improper shoe choices—like switching from heels to flat sandals or wearing overly soft, collapsing shoes—can trigger or worsen the condition. They stress the importance of professional diagnosis, as heel pain can stem from 27 different causes, and many people mistakenly attribute pain to heel spurs, which are often asymptomatic. Treatment involves a multidisciplinary approach: custom orthotics, physiotherapy, eccentric loading exercises, calf release, and hip strengthening to stabilize gait. The episode also warns against cortisone injections directly into the fascia, which can cause rupture, and urges early intervention—seeking help if pain persists for more than a few days. The hosts advocate for listening to your body, choosing supportive footwear, and being proactive in treatment if progress stalls. Key takeaways include: (1) Plantar fasciitis is a degenerative condition, not inflammatory—so anti-inflammatories won’t help; (2) Sudden shifts from high heels to flat shoes can strain the fascia; (3) Custom orthotics and eccentric loading are essential parts of rehab; (4) Weak hip muscles contribute to foot instability and should be addressed; (5) Avoid cortisone injections directly into the fascia; (6) Don’t ignore persistent heel pain—seek help early; (7) Use the South African Podiatrist Association website (podiatrist.coza) to find a qualified professional. The tone is informative, urgent, and empowering, with a strong emphasis on patient agency and professional collaboration.